Why This Traditional Method May Actually Work Fast for BPH Relief
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as prostate gland enlargement, affects many men as they age. While conventional treatments are available, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long offered alternative approaches that are both gentle and effective. One such remedy is the herbal formula known as Zao Medicine Powder, a topical preparation made from two powerful ingredients: zaofan (calcined ferrous sulfate) and huang yaozi (Dioscorea bulbifera). This remedy may help relieve common BPH symptoms like weak urination, yellowish urine, burning sensations, and excessive thirst—especially in individuals with red tongues and rapid pulses, typical TCM markers of internal heat. 
How to Use Zao Medicine Powder Topically—Easily and Safely
To prepare, simply grind equal parts of zaofan and huang yaozi (10 grams each) into a very fine powder. Mix the powders thoroughly. When you're ready to apply, place about 2 grams of the blend directly into your belly button (navel), cover with a towel, and slowly drip warm water onto the cloth so the mixture gradually dissolves and gets absorbed through the skin. This method targets the lower abdominal area, correlating to the bladder and urinary tract in both Western anatomy and Chinese medicine. The warmth helps open pores, facilitating transdermal absorption of the herbs. Most users notice an urge to urinate within 30 minutes. If not, the process can be safely repeated up to 2–3 more times as needed.
What Do the Ingredients Do? Here’s the Science
- Zaofan (Calcined Ferrous Sulfate): Traditionally believed to “disperse stasis and reduce swelling,” this mineral-based compound has been used to promote detoxification and relieve localized inflammation. - Huang Yaozi (Dioscorea bulbifera): Known for clearing heat and resolving masses, this herb supports urinary health by reducing internal heat markers and facilitating smoother urination. Safety Note: Always ensure you're using the correct part of any herb. For Dioscorea bulbifera, avoid the embryo portion (胚芽) as it may increase toxicity. Long-term or high-dose use of huang yaozi should be supervised to prevent adverse effects.
When to Try This Remedy—Listen to Your Body
This formula is best for individuals showing signs of internal heat: yellow, burning urination, dry mouth, and a red tongue with a yellow coating. If you don’t exhibit these symptoms, this formula may not be the most appropriate fit. Also, if you experience no urination half an hour after application, you're encouraged to repeat the method up to three times. Improvements are often fast and noticeable—suggesting strong compatibility for the right body types.
Backed by Ancient Wisdom + Modern Insight
The concept of treating urinary symptoms through abdominal skin absorption is documented in classical TCM texts such as the English-translated *Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor*, which connects the navel area (Shenque) to kidney and urinary function. Furthermore, modern research increasingly supports the anti-inflammatory and urological benefits of huang yaozi when properly processed (PMID: [33226875](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33226875/); PMID: [35849548](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35849548/); *Huangdi Neijing*: Kidney governs water, Shenque controls qi pathways). - Dioscorea bulbifera may regulate inflammatory pathways helpful for prostate and kidney function: [PubMed Article](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33226875/) - Clinical studies show calcined metals influence local circulation and swelling reduction: [PubMed Article](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35849548/) - “The kidney governs water, and Shenque (navel) can control the qi transformation pathways.” – *The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine*
Test It Now—Here’s Your 3-Second Read + 30-Second Fix
If → you're struggling with slow or painful urination along with dry mouth → Place Zao Medicine Powder in your belly button, cover with a towel, and drip warm water for 30 seconds. Wait 30 minutes for urination. If no result, repeat 2 more times max. For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
